Satellite broadcast receiving and distribution system

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides for a satellite system that will permit for the transmission of signals of two different frequencies and polarities to be transmitted simultaneously, also the system will accommodate two different polarity commands from two or more different sources at the same time. The satellite system of the present invention includes a satellite dish or antenna that receive signals. These received signals are then transmitted to a converter. A head-in frequency processor is coupled to the converter. This head-in frequency processor enables the different frequencies and polarities to be transmitted simultaneously via a single coaxial cable. This single coaxial cable is coupled to a head-out receiver processor which is connected to a receiver. This receiver is connected to a source. This unique design and configuration provides for the system that will permit for satellite broadcasting to occur in locations that are not in the line-of-sight path to the satellites. Accordingly, the satellite system of the present invention will permit satellite broadcasting in high-rises, hospitals, condominiums, schools, and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a satellite broadcastingreceiving and distribution system and more particularly to abroadcasting receiving and distribution system that will allow for thetransmission of vertical and horizontal or left-hand circular andright-hand circular polarization signals to be transmittedsimultaneously via a single coaxial cable.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Satellite broadcasting has become very popular throughout the UnitedStates. Conventionally, broadcast signals are transmitted through anartificial satellite at very high frequencies. These frequencies aregenerally amplified and are processed by a particular device afterreceived by an antenna or antennas and prior to application to aconventional home television set or the like.

The device is composed of an outdoor unit generally associated with theantenna and an indoor unit generally associated with the television setor the like and both units are coupled via a coaxial cable.

A problem associated with these types of systems is that they aredesigned to accept signals through a line of sight. Accordingly, if thesatellite is not visual from a building, then the signal cannot betransmitted. Thus, these systems are rendered useless for high-rises,hospitals, school, and the like. These systems are limited in usage, andas such, can only be utilized in residential homes.

As an example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,301,352 issue to Nakagawa et al. disclosea satellite broadcast receiving system. The system of Nakagawa et al.includes a plurality of antennas which, respectively, include aplurality of output terminals. A change-over divider is connected theplurality of antennas and have a plurality of output terminals. Aplurality of receivers are attached to the change-over divider forselecting one of the antenna. Though this system does achieve one of itsobjects by providing for a simplified satellite system, it does,however, suffer a major short coming by not providing a means ofreceiving satellite broadcasting for individuals who are not in directline of sight to the antennas. This system is silent to the means ofsimultaneously transmitting vertical and horizontal polarized signalsvia a single coaxial cable.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,954, issue to Inoue et al. disclose yet anothersatellite system that includes an outdoor unit that is connected to achannel selector. In this embodiment, the satellite signal receivingapparatus receives vertically and horizontally polarized radiationsignals at the side of a receiving antenna. The signals are thentransmitted, selectively to provide for either one of the vertically orhorizontally polarized signals to be transmitted. This design andconfiguration provides for one coaxial cable to be utilized, but doesnot provide for the vertical and horizontal signals to be transmittedsimultaneously, but rather, selectively.

None of these previous efforts, however, provide the benefits intendedwith the present invention. Additionally, prior techniques do notsuggest the present inventive combination of component elements asdisclosed and claimed herein. The present invention achieves itsintended purposes, objectives and advantages over the prior art devicethrough a new, useful and unobvious combination of component elements,which is simple to use, with the utilization of a minimum number offunctioning parts, at a reasonable cost to manufacture, assemble, testand by employing only readily available material.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a satellite broadcast receiving anddistribution system that will permit for the transmission of verticaland horizontal or left-hand circular and right-hand circularpolarization signals simultaneously via a single coaxial cable. Thesystem of the present invention will accommodate two different polaritycommands from two or more different sources at the same time. Thissatellite broadcast receiving and distribution system of the presentinvention will provide for the signals received from the satellite to beconverted to frequencies which the present day amplifiers can transport.This will permit for the signals to travel via existing wiring inbuildings, high-rises, hospitals, and the like so that satellitebroadcasting can be viewed by numerous individuals by way of a singlesatellite antenna.

The satellite broadcast system consists of a satellite antenna whichreceives the polarized signals. These polarized signals are transmittedto a head-in processor and are converted to different frequencies andpolarities in order to render the different signals to be transmittedsimultaneously. Hence, the head-in processor will permit for thetransmission of signals of two different frequencies and polarities tobe transmitted simultaneously and will also accommodate two differentpolarity commands from two or more different sources at the same timevia a single cable. This cable is coupled to a head-out processor. Thesesignals, once in the head-out processor, will be converted tofrequencies and polarities that are required for the source (i.e.television). Once converted, the signals are transmitted to a satellitereceiver. This satellite receiver is coupled to the source.

Accordingly, it is the object of the present invention to provide for asatellite broadcast receiving and distribution system that will convertdifferent frequencies and different polarized signals in order to permitthe signals to be transmitted via a single coaxial cable.

It is another object of the present invention to provide for a satellitebroadcast receiving and distribution system that will provide service tomid/high-rise office buildings, condominiums, schools, hospitals and thelike via a single satellite.

A final object of the present invention, to be specifically enumeratedherein, is to provide a satellite broadcast receiving and distributionsystem in accordance with the proceeding objects and which will conformto conventional forms of manufacture, be of simple construction and easyto use so as to provide a system that would be economically feasible,long lasting and relatively trouble free in operation.

Although there have been many inventions related to satellite broadcastreceiving and distribution systems, none of the inventions have becomesufficiently compact, low cost, reliable enough to become commonly used,and all still require the use of two cables in order to transmit thefull band width signals of the different polarized frequenciessimultaneously. The present invention meets the requirements of thesimplified design, compact size, low initial cost, low operating cost,ease of installation and maintainability, and minimal amount of trainingto successfully employ the invention.

The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent objects of theinvention. These objects should be construed to be merely illustrativeof some of the more prominent features and application of the intendedinvention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by applying thedisclosed invention in a different manner or modifying the inventionwithin the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, a fuller understandingof the invention may be had by referring to the detailed description ofthe preferred embodiments in addition to the scope of the inventiondefined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram representing the satellite broadcastsignal receiving and distribution system according to the presentinvention.

Similar reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout the severalviews of the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the satellite system of the present inventionincludes a receiving satellite that is connected to a head-in equipmentfrequency processor 44. It is at this head-in equipment frequencyprocessor where the signals (Vertical-polarized signals andHorizontal-polarized signals or left-hand circular and right-handcircular polarization signals) are received simultaneously and thentransmitted via a single coaxial cable 13 to the head-out receiverprocessor 45 or 46. From the receiver processor, the signals aretransported to a satellite receiver 27 or 41 and to a source 29 or 43(this figure illustrates a television as its source).

As illustrated, the receiving satellite 1 is connected to a low-noiseblock converter (LNB) 2 for amplifying the respective polarized signals(Vertical-polarized signals and Horizontal-polarized signals orleft-hand circular and right-hand circular polarization signals). ThisLNB is coupled to the head-in equipment frequency processor 44.Accordingly, after signals are received, they pass the low-noise blockconverter 2, to provide for the signals to enter the head-in equipmentfrequency processor 44 (illustrated in dashed lines) via conduits 3 and4.

The head-in equipment frequency processor 44 provides for the signalsvia lines 3 and 4 to be converted to the frequencies which the presentday amplifiers can tranport via converters 5 and 7, respectively. Fromthe conduits 3 and 4, the signals or transponders are transmitted to afirst converter or down converter 5 and a second converter or upconverter 7, respectfully. These frequency converters convert theentered frequencies to frequencies which the present day amplifiers cantransport.

The utilization of two converters permit for the acceptance of twosignals or polarized transponders that are of a different frequency.

In the down converter 5, the transponders are converted down to aspecified frequency. This specified frequency is the frequency that isrequired for the present day amplifiers to transport. The newlyconverted frequencies are amplified through the amplifying means 6. Atmeans 6, the converted frequencies are amplified so not to create secondharmonics. These signals are then transferred to a four way splitter 10.

In the up converter 7, the transponders are converted up to a specifiedfrequency. The converted frequencies then are converted down via downconverter 8. This process of converting up and then down provides forfrequencies to be converted without difficulties and avoiding theforbidden conversion area.

The converted signals are transferred to the four way splitter 10 inorder to combine the frequency of the amplifier signal of 6 andfrequency from converter 8. To synchronized the system, the frequenciesfrom the phase lock loop (PLL) transmitter 9 are transmitted to thesplitter 10.

From 10, the signals are passed through an A.C. power separator 11 whichroutes 60 Volts power to a D.C. power supply of 18 Volts.

This will permit for the dual frequencies from the satellite dish to betransmitted simultaneously via a single coaxial cable 13. Dependent uponthe length of the cable, an optional amplifier 14 can be coupledthereto. Power from a power source 16 is inserted into the lines via apower inserter 15. The signals are amplified, as needed, with anadditional amplifier 17. It is noted that the amplifiers are optionaland are dependent to the distance that the head-in frequency processor44 is located from the head-out receiver processor 45 or 46. The powersupply and power source 16 energize the head-in frequency processor 44.

From the single coaxial cable 13, the signals are adjusted via a tap 18or 31 to permit for the appropriate decibels that is required for thehead-out receiver processor 45 or 46.

The head-out frequency processor includes a plurality of embodiments.The design and configuration of the head-out frequency processor isdependent on the source in combination with the satellite receiver.

The first embodiment for the head-out receiver processor is illustratedin FIG. 1 and is represented by way of dashed lines 45. As seen in thishead-out receiver processor, the simultaneously transmitted signalsenter the processor via conduit 19. The conduit is coupled to a four (4)way splitter 20. A phase lock loop (PLL) receiver 21 is coupled to thesplitter 20 to permit for the signals to be locked to the proper anddesired frequencies. From the splitter, the first frequency istransmitted to a first converter 22 in order to permit signals ortransponders to be converted up to a specified frequency. This upconverted signal is then transmitted to the satellite receiver 27 by wayof a conduit 26.

The second frequencies are transmitted to a first or up converter 23 andthen is transmitted to a second or down converter 24. This will permitfor the signals to be converted to the desired frequency. The conversionof the signals from up to down provides the benefit of converting thefrequencies without any mishap or error. This method of conversion willavoid the forbidden conversion area. This second or down converter 24 iscoupled to the satellite receiver 27 via conduit 25. The signalsreceived from the satellite 1 can then be transmitted to the source 29by line 28.

As illustrated, this head-out receiver processor 45 is the reverseprocess of the head-in processor 44. This is to provide for the signalsto reconvert to its original frequencies so as to provide for thesatellite receiver and source to accept the signals. The single cable 13accepts the signals at frequencies different than that of the source 29.Accordingly the head-out receiver processor 45 must reconvert thesignals to the frequencies that are utilized by the source. This designand configuration of the head-out receiver processor is dependent on thedesign and configuration of the satellite.

An alteration of the satellite receiver requires an alteration in thehead-out receiver processor. This alteration is illustrated in FIG. 1and is shown in outline and designated as reference 46. In this designand configuration, the satellite receiver utilizes only one wire 40 andaccepts only one type of signals, at a time, such as left-hand circularor right-hand circular polarized signals.

As seen, the frequencies are tapped via 31. The tap 31 is coupled to thehead-out receiver processor 46 via line 32 which is connected to a four(4) way splitter 33. To provide for the signals to be locked in properfrequencies, the four way splitter 33 is coupled to a phase lock loop(PLL) receiver 34.

From the splitter 33, the first signal is transmitted to a first or upconverter 36 and then is transmitted to a second or down converter 37.The conversion of the signals from up to down provides the benefit ofconverting the frequencies without any mishap or error. This method ofconversion will avoid the forbidden conversion area.

The signals, from the splitter 33 are transmitted to an up converter 35which will inherently convert the signals.

A polarity switch 39 is connected to converters 35, 36, 37 in order topermit for the head-out receiver processor to be coupled to thesatellite receiver 41 via a single cable 40 and a joining means 38 whichis a four (4) way splitter. The satellite receiver 41 is connected byway of line 42 to a source 43.

It is noted that FIG. 1 illustrates the use of two head-out receiverprocessors, but in actuality, only one head-out receiver processor isutilized with the head-in processor 44. The type and embodiment for thehead-out receiver processor is dependent to the combination of thesatellite receiver and source that are utilized.

The satellite system of the present invention will permit for twosignals of different frequency and polarities to travel simultaneouslyvia a single coaxial cable. The use of this will provide for a satellitesystem that is versatile, economical, and compact. The usage of thesingle cable permits for a system that can accept satellite broadcastingin places that were previously rendered impossible. These placesincludes mid/high-rise office buildings, condominiums, hospitals,schools, etc. The unique design and configuration enables the signals tobe transmitted via the existing wiring of the buildings. The onlyrenovations that may need to be done is the upgrading of the existingamplifiers.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to an embodiment thereof, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

1. A satellite broadcasting system comprising: a satellite dish coupledto a low-noise block converter; and said low-noise block converter iscoupled to a first means of converting vertical polarization signals andhorizontal polarization signals or left-hand circular polarizationsignals and right-hand circular polarization signals from a satelliteand transmitting simultaneously via a single coaxial cable for enablingtwo different frequencies and polarities to be transmittedsimultaneously via said single coaxial cable.
 2. A satellitebroadcasting system as in claim 1 further comprising a second meanscoupled to said first means; said second means converts said verticalpolarization signals and said horizontal polarization signals or saidleft-hand circular polarization signals and said right-hand circularpolarization signals from said first means to frequencies for a source;a satellite receiver is coupled to said second means; and said source iscoupled to said satellite receiver.
 3. A satellite broadcasting systemas in claim 2 wherein a power source is coupled to said first means andsaid power source powers said first means.
 4. A satellite broadcastingsystem as in claim 2 wherein said second means provides for said signalsto be converted separately and independently to said satellite receiverby a transmitting means.
 5. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim2 wherein said second means provides for a transmitting means for saidsignals to be selectively converted to said satellite receiver via afirst cable coupled to said second means.
 6. A satellite broadcastingsystem as in claim 5 wherein said transmitting means further includes apolarity switch for permitting said signals to be selectively convertedto said satellite receiver.
 7. A satellite broadcasting system as inclaim 2 wherein said first means includes a first converting system forconverting said signals of a first direction to a desired firstfrequency and polarization and a second converting system for convertingsaid signals of a second direction to a desired second frequency andpolarization.
 8. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 7 whereinsaid first converting system includes a first down converter which iscoupled to an amplifier and said second converting system includes an upconverted coupled to a second down converter and a joining means iscoupled to said amplifier and said second down converter.
 9. A satellitebroadcasting system as in claim 8 wherein said joining means includes afour way splitter.
 10. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 9wherein a phase lock loop transmitter is coupled to said four waysplitter.
 11. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 4 wherein saidsecond means includes a splitting means to split and divide said signalsfrom said single coaxial cable to enable said signals to be transmittedto a first converting system for converting said signals of a firstdirection to a desired first frequency and polarization for saidsatellite receiver and a second converting system for converting saidsignals of a second direction to a desired second frequency andpolarization for said satellite receiver, and said first convertingsystem and said second converting system provide for said transmittingmeans.
 12. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 11 wherein saidfirst converting system includes a first up converter which is coupledto said splitting means and said first down converter is coupled to afirst down converter, said first down converter is coupled to saidsatellite receiver via a first conduit, said second converting systemincludes a second up converter coupled to said splitting means, and saidsecond up converter is coupled to said satellite receiver via a secondconduit.
 13. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 12 wherein saidsplitting means includes a four way splitter.
 14. A satellitebroadcasting system as in claim 13 wherein a phase lock loop receiver iscoupled to said four way splitter.
 15. A satellite broadcasting systemas in claim 6 wherein said second means includes a splitting means tosplit and divide said signals from said single coaxial cable to enablesaid signal to be transmitted to a first converting system forconverting said signals of a first direction to a desired firstfrequency and polarization for said satellite receiver and a secondconverting system for converting said signals of a second direction to adesired second frequency and polarization for said satellite receiver,and said first converting system and said second converting systemprovide for said transmitting means.
 16. A satellite broadcasting systemas in claim 15 wherein said first converting system includes a first upconverter which is coupled to said splitting means and said first upconverter is coupled to a first down converter, said first downconverter is coupled to a joining means, said second converting systemincludes a second up converter coupled to said splitting means, and saidsecond up converter is coupled to said joining means, said polarityswitch is coupled to said first down converter and said second upconverter, and said polarity switch is coupled to said first cable whichis coupled to said satellite receiver.
 17. A satellite broadcastingsystem as in claim 16 wherein said splitting means and said joiningmeans each include a four way splitter, and a phase lock loop receiveris coupled said splitting means.
 18. A satellite broadcasting system asin claim 8 wherein said second means includes a splitting means to splitand divide said signals from said single coaxial to enable said signalto be transmitted to a third converting system for converting saidsignals of said first direction and a fourth converting system forconverting said signals of said second direction.
 19. A satellitebroadcasting system as in claim 18 wherein said third converting systemincludes a second up converter which is coupled to said splitting meansand said second up converter is coupled to a third down converter, saidthird down converter is coupled to said satellite receiver via a firstconduit, said fourth converting system includes a third up convertercoupled to said splitting means, and said third up converter is coupledto said satellite receiver via a second conduit.
 20. A satellitebroadcasting system as in claim 8 wherein said second means includes asplitting means to split and divide said signals from said singlecoaxial to enable said signals to be transmitted to a third convertingsystem for converting said signals of said first direction to a desiredfirst frequency and polarization for said satellite receiver and afourth converting system for converting said signals of said seconddirection to a desired second frequency and polarization for saidsatellite receiver.
 21. A satellite broadcasting system as in claim 20wherein said third converting system includes a second up converterwhich is coupled to said splitting means and said second up converter iscoupled to a third down converter, said third down converter is coupledto a second joining means, said fourth converting system includes athird up converter coupled to said splitting means, and said third upconverter is coupled to said second joining means, a polarity switch iscoupled to said third down converter and said third up converter, andsaid polarity switch is further coupled to a conduit which is coupled tosaid satellite receiver, and said second joining means is coupled tosaid conduit.